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Vice-President Kashim Shettima stated that Nigeria holds more significance than the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) amid the ongoing conflict between the Association and the Dangote refinery.
Shettima made this remark on Monday during the inauguration of the Nigerian Economic Summit 2025 in Abuja. He emphasized the vital role of the Dangote Refinery, which processes 650,000 barrels per day, and insisted that it must receive unwavering support to ensure its success.
He remarked that the $20 billion facility is a national asset that needs backing to operate effectively.
“Aliko Dangote is more than an individual; he represents an institution and serves as a beacon in Nigeria’s economic landscape. How we treat this gentleman will influence how outsiders perceive us. If he had invested $10 billion in companies like Microsoft, Amazon, or Google, he might be worth $70 to $80 billion today.
“However, he chose to invest in his own country, and we owe it to future generations to diligently protect, promote, and preserve the interests of this great nation, Nigeria.
“I urge both labor and the organized private sector to exercise caution, reflect, and foster a deeper sense of patriotism in defining and enhancing the relationship between labor and industry. It is crucial to maintain our steadily improving economic prospects and not to hold the entire nation hostage over a minor labor disagreement.
“Nigeria is greater than PENGASSAN. Nigeria is greater than each and every one of us. I am not addressing you as a partisan,” Shettima concluded.
FAQ
What is the significance of the Dangote Refinery?
The Dangote Refinery is critical for Nigeria's economy as it is designed to process 650,000 barrels of oil per day, representing a significant national asset that requires support to function effectively.
What did Vice-President Shettima say about Aliko Dangote?
Vice-President Shettima described Aliko Dangote as an institution and a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s economic development, emphasizing the importance of supporting his investments in the country.
What was the Vice-President's message to labor and the private sector?
Shettima called for caution and a sense of patriotism from both labor and the organized private sector to improve their relationship and avoid holding the nation hostage over minor disputes.
